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Career in Ruins

careerinruins

Archaeology? That’s like dinosaurs and stuff isn’t it? Nope. Learn about what archaeology is really all about and how people work within it.

  1. 5D AGO

    A Career Q&A

    The conversation begins with a reconnection and catching up between Derek and Lawrence, followed by a discussion on recent projects and exciting content. The conversation then transitions into a reflection on archaeological musings and craft fairs, exploring the themes of reuse, craft, and everyday life in the archaeological record. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to archaeology, including teaching, learning, and cultural differences in archaeological practices. It also delves into the motivation for pursuing a PhD in archaeology and provides book recommendations for archaeology enthusiasts. The discussion highlights the vocation of archaeology and the differences in archaeological practices across countries. Takeaways Archaeological craft and reuseChallenges of creating archaeological contentExciting upcoming projects Archaeology as a vocationDifferences in archaeological practices across countries Chapters 00:00 Archaeological Musings and Craft Fairs19:35 Discussion of Movies and TV Shows26:31 Motivation for Pursuing a PhD34:13 Cultural Differences in Archaeological Practices Across Countries

    40 min

  2. FEB 21

    S8 Ep10: A day in a roundhouse

    Join Derek as he takes Career in Ruins to Hengistbury Head, Dorset to meet curator and archaeologist Dr Hayden Scott-Pratt. In this on-location interview inside a reconstructed Iron Age roundhouse, Hayden shares his journey from undergraduate experiments in copper smelting to curating one of Britain’s most important archaeological sites. Discover why Hengistbury Head was once a major Iron Age international trading port, connecting Britain with continental Europe and the Mediterranean. Learn about imported amphorae, cross-Channel communities, ancient industries, and the evidence for large-scale trade in goods like pottery, iron, and livestock. Hayden also explains the creation of the site’s experimental archaeology village, where volunteers built a full-scale roundhouse using traditional tools and materials. The project brings ancient crafts, cooking, farming, and daily life to life for schools and visitors—right on top of a scheduled archaeological monument with 12,000 years of human history. If you’re interested in Iron Age Britain, experimental archaeology, museum careers, or the story of one of the UK’s most fascinating coastal heritage sites, this episode is for you. #IronAge #HengistburyHead #ExperimentalArchaeology #MuseumCareers #ArchaeologyPodcast #DorsetArchaeology #AncientTrade #IronAgeRoundhouse #CuratorInterview #HeritageCareers #BronzeAge #RomanBritain #ArchaeologyUK

    17 min

  3. FEB 5

    S8 Ep9: A Career in South Asia

    In this episode of Career in Ruins, hosts Lawrence and Derek reflect on the new year, share personal updates, and pay tribute to their late friend Kerry Ely. They discuss exciting developments in archaeology, introduce Afifa Khan, who shares her journey from a young enthusiast to a professional archaeologist, and explore the challenges of commercial archaeology. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, the role of technology, and the need for more women in the field. They also touch on the theme of envy and inspiration within the archaeological community, concluding with thoughts on time travel and future aspirations.

    48 min

  4. 12/12/2025

    S8 Ep8: A Career in Stone

    In this episode, the hosts reflect on their recent experiences at an awards ceremony, share insights from their visit to the Titanic exhibition, and discuss their ongoing projects. They welcome Professor David Nash, who shares his journey from geology to archaeology, focusing on his research on silcrete and sarsens, the formation of the stones of Stonehenge, and the interdisciplinary nature of his work. The conversation delves into the mysteries of Stonehenge, the significance of ancient DNA, and the excitement of time travel to witness the construction of historical monuments.

    51 min

  5. 11/21/2025

    S8 Ep7: A Career in a Bit of Everything

    In this episode of Career in Ruins, hosts Lawrence and Derek engage in a lively discussion with Rob Sutton, Director of Heritage Consultancy at Cotswold Archaeology. The conversation covers a range of topics including the intersection of archaeology and video games, the importance of storytelling in archaeology, and Rob's extensive career journey from a young enthusiast to a leading expert in heritage consultancy. The episode highlights the challenges and rewards of commercial archaeology, the significance of preserving historical narratives, and the joy of engaging with the public about archaeology. Rob shares personal anecdotes and insights into the evolving landscape of archaeology and heritage management, making for an engaging and informative episode.

    52 min

  6. 11/13/2025

    S8 Ep6: A Giant Day Out

    Following the brilliant Time Team episode on the project, Career in Ruins visit Cerne Abbas, Dorset, to catch up with archaeologist Hugh Willmott and his team. Beneath the watchful gaze of the famous Cerne Abbas Giant, Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman delve into the story behind the abbey’s excavation — tracing its journey from Anglo-Saxon origins, through the turmoil of the Dissolution of the Monasteries, to the remarkable discoveries now emerging from the trenches. Join us on site as we meet the students, volunteers, and craftspeople bringing this medieval site back to life. From Roman coins and decorated floor tiles to intricately carved masonry and a live smithing demonstration, the dig offers a vivid glimpse into the abbey’s past — and even teaches us how to forge a medieval knife from scrap metal found in the spoil heap.   Catch up with the recent Time Team episode here: https://youtu.be/DY68mzYXWK8?si=lyNhe5y5EPRZWPmW   🔗 Follow the Cerne Abbey Project: Instagram – @Cerne_Abbey   🎙️ About Career in Ruins: Hosted by Lawrence Shaw and Derek Pitman, Career in Ruins takes you behind the scenes of archaeology, heritage, and discovery — one trench at a time.   #TimeTeam #CerneAbbey #Archaeology #CerneAbbasGiant #CareerInRuins #MedievalAbbey #DorsetHistory #ArchaeologicalExcavation #Heritage #ArchaeologyPodcast #StudentArchaeology #Fieldwork #History

    16 min

  7. 11/04/2025

    S8 Ep5: A Career in Careers

    In this episode, Derek and Lawrence engage in a lively discussion with David Connolly, exploring his extensive career in archaeology, the significance of community engagement, and the evolution of BAJR. They delve into themes of heritage crime, the importance of skills in archaeology, and the pride and envy that come with working in the field. David shares personal anecdotes and insights, emphasizing the value of listening and learning from others in the profession. The conversation culminates in a thought-provoking time machine segment, where David reflects on a pivotal moment in history at the fall of Nineveh. Chapters 00:00 Welcome to Korea in Ruins 03:00 Reflections on Previous Episodes 05:53 The Impact of Media on Archaeology 08:44 David Connolly's Journey in Archaeology 11:43 Life Lessons from Archaeology 17:16 The Role of Badger in Archaeology 26:46 The Birth of BAJR: A Community for Archaeologists 31:49 Building Trust and Influence in Archaeology 38:06 Engaging with Pseudo-Archaeology: A New Approach 41:15 Pride in Archaeological Achievements 46:18 Time Travel: A Journey to Nineveh

    52 min

  8. 10/31/2025

    Halloween Special: Career in Ruins 2025

    In this Halloween-themed episode, Derek and Lawrence explore the origins and traditions of Halloween, discussing its historical significance, cultural practices, and spooky stories. They delve into the connections between Halloween and archaeology, including Edgar Allan Poe's influence and the myths surrounding tomb raiding. The conversation also touches on personal experiences with Halloween festivities and more. 00:00 Halloween Special Introduction 02:34 The Origins of Halloween 05:23 Halloween Traditions and Rituals 08:04 Edgar Allan Poe and Archaeology 11:16 Curses and Tomb Raiding 13:35 Spooky Archaeological Experiences 16:49 Halloween Reflections and Future Plans

    23 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Archaeology? That’s like dinosaurs and stuff isn’t it? Nope. Learn about what archaeology is really all about and how people work within it.

Information

  • Creator
    careerinruins
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    79
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 careerinruins
  • Show Website
    Career in Ruins
  • Provider
    Derek Pitman

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